News Summary
Travelers at U.S. airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, will no longer need to remove their shoes during TSA security checks. This change follows an evaluation of screening equipment by the Department of Homeland Security and is part of the TSA’s modernization efforts. While the shoe-removal policy was put in place post the ‘shoe bomber’ incident in 2006, the new guidelines aim to enhance the travel experience without compromising safety. Passengers may still be asked to remove shoes under certain circumstances, but the update significantly eases security procedures for most.
Atlanta — Passengers traveling through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and other U.S. airports will no longer be required to remove their shoes during TSA security checks, according to a recent announcement by officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This significant change is the result of an evaluation of screening equipment at all airports, with the department expressing full confidence in maintaining security without shoe removal. The new policy is part of a broader effort by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to modernize security screening processes.
The rule eliminating shoe removal was first implemented in 2006, following an attempted bombing incident by Richard Reid, who is commonly referred to as the “shoe bomber.” The TSA gradually began to lift the shoe-removal policy at various select airports starting Monday, with specific airports including Montgomery Regional Airport in Alabama, Baltimore/Washington International Airport, and others being the first to test the new guidelines. Subsequently, there are plans for nationwide implementation in the near future.
While the new guideline significantly reduces the hassle for travelers, passengers should be aware that there may still be circumstances where individuals are asked to remove their shoes for additional screening. TSA officers retain the discretion to enforce these measures if deemed necessary, ensuring safety remains a top priority.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has expressed excitement about the technological advancements that have made this rule change possible, emphasizing its importance as the most substantial update to TSA procedures in over a decade. The TSA has been on a mission to improve passenger convenience while maintaining strict safety standards and efficiency at airports.
In the past, TSA PreCheck members enjoyed the benefit of not having to remove their shoes during screening. With this new change, all passengers in regular screening lanes will now be exempt from this requirement, greatly enhancing the overall travel experience.
Despite the lifting of the shoe-removal policy, current security procedures still require travelers to remove other items such as belts, jackets, laptops, and liquids. These items must be placed on an X-ray belt for screening, continuing to ensure thorough checks are performed.
Reports from travelers have indicated positive reactions to the new footwear policy, with many expressing that the revised measures make the security process more convenient. With significant events, including the FIFA World Cup, expected to increase travel volume, these updates are timely and aim to minimize inconvenience for passengers.
The TSA is also testing other upcoming changes to improve the passenger experience, including establishing separate screening lanes for military personnel and families with young children. These changes are expected to roll out within the next six to eight months, as the TSA focuses on enhancing overall airport efficiency.
Overall, the TSA’s new guidelines are part of a comprehensive review of security measures designed to improve passenger throughput and reduce wait times at airports. By leveraging advancements in technology, the DHS is committed to continually assessing and updating security procedures to create a more efficient and pleasant travel environment for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- WSBTV
- Wikipedia: Transportation Security Administration
- AJC
- Google Search: TSA shoe removal policy
- TMJ4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: TSA
- Boston Herald
- Google News: airport security updates
- Santa Fe New Mexican
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
ATLANTA STAFF WRITER The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
